Building a strong farming business in a low-rainfall area
Farming in the eastern wheatbelt of Western Australia is hard. The climate in the region is highly variable, with just 280–300 mm rainfall each year. Growing crops here is difficult because of climate risk and soil problems. Also, long-term pressure on the land can lead to less productivity. To build a successful farming business under these conditions, farmers need to make careful choices, show resilience and a have long-term approach to land management.
Working with nature
The Nixon family has developed a farming method that works in low-rainfall conditions. It combines expertise in growing crops, managing soil health, and whole-of-landscape thinking: they look at how different parts of the land affect each other. They grow wheat, barley, canola, lupins and chickpeas, using less intensive methods suited to the region.
Alongside crop production, the family invested in a 1,400-hectare tree farm. Here they are restoring degraded land and reducing erosion and salinity risks across the wider catchment. The project forms part of Australia’s Carbon Credit Unit program. It shows the family thinks long-term: to them, natural capital is the foundation to keep the environment and their business strong.
Our role
The Nixon family has been a Rabobank client since 2017. We provide seasonal financing to support farm operations. The farm expansion has largely been self-funded through retained earnings. Beyond financing, Rabobank acts as a long-term strategic partner. We understand the family’s careful approach to risk management and growing the business.
The Nixon family makes decisions based on expertise and research. Rabobank supports them with this. As the family’s sole banking partner, Rabobank supports the continuity and resilience of their farm and helps them plan for the long term in a challenging environment.
Investing in the future
The Nixon family’s approach has strengthened both land and business performance in an area with low rainfall. Soil condition and land stability have improved, erosion risks have been reduced and restored areas are regenerating biodiversity. At the same time, the farming business remains financially strong. This enables the family to continue investing in land stewardship and future generations.